Police are investigating a heritage crime in West Dorset after the door of a 14th-century chapel was recently damaged.

The door and lock at St Catherine’s Chapel in Abbotsbury were damaged in what is thought by police to be an attempt to gain entry to the grade one listed building.

Officers are now appealing for anyone with information about the incident, which took place on Saturday, September 24, to come forward.

A statement from Dorset Police said: "Officers investigating a heritage crime involving damage to the door of a historic chapel in West Dorset are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

"It was reported that damage was caused to a door and lock at St Catherine’s Chapel in Abbotsbury sometime on Saturday 24 September 2022.

"It is believed the damage was caused in an attempt to gain entry to the grade one listed 14th-century chapel."

Those with any relevant information should contact www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220158176

Police Community Support Officer Chris Mullens, of Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team, said: “We take reports of heritage crime very seriously and this incident has involved damage to a historic and much-loved building.

“We are carrying out enquiries into this matter and I would urge anyone with information that might assist our investigation to please come forward.”

English Heritage have been contacted for a statement.